Apple could be preparing to launch a new version of AirPods Pro with built-in cameras as soon as later this year, according to recent reports.
Multiple sources say Apple is developing AirPods Pro with tiny infrared cameras, though they won’t function like traditional cameras used for photos or video. Instead, the sensors are expected to gather information about the user’s surroundings.
One of the biggest potential uses is gesture control. The infrared cameras could allow AirPods Pro to detect hand movements, letting users control music, calls, and other features without touching the earbuds.
AirPods Pro already support head gestures for actions like accepting or declining calls, and adding hand gesture recognition could expand that hands-free control even further. Some reports suggest Apple could eventually move away from pressure-sensitive controls on the stem altogether, replacing them with gesture-based input.
The new model is also expected to include a next-generation H3 chip. While the current AirPods Pro lineup continues to use the H2 chip, the H3 is rumored to bring improvements to audio quality, efficiency, and latency.
There could also be tighter integration with Apple Vision Pro. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has suggested the infrared cameras could enhance spatial audio when used alongside the headset, allowing the sound experience to better respond to the user’s environment and movements.
While the idea of camera-equipped earbuds may sound unusual, the focus appears to be on awareness and interaction rather than imaging. As with many Apple products, the final features and timing could still change before launch.